Welcome to the Club

PODi—the Digital Printing Initiative www.podi.org
PODi is a consortium whose members represent all facets of the digital printing industry, including print and marketing service providers, enterprise marketers, and manufacturers of software and hardware systems. Its programs and services aim to drive demand for marketing applications powered by digital print and it helps members integrate digital technologies into their marketing, IT and management strategies. Benefits include access to the group’s case-study database, webinars, and reports, as well as sales training tools and discounted registration for the AppForum conference.

Printing Industries of America (PIA)www.printing.org
Created from a merger of the former Printing Industries of America and the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF) in 2008, the new Printing Industries of America publishes Printing Industries of America: the Magazine and offers members consulting services, market research, educational opportunities, and technical resources.

Professional Decal Application Alliance (PDAA)www.sgia.org/pdaa
Founded in 1976 to raise the visibility and professionalism of the graphics-application industry, PDAA provides graphics producers with direct access to qualified, certified installers nationwide. Now part of SGIA, the Alliance provides members with access to the PDAA Information Network, a free support line, unlimited business referrals, energy and shipping discounts, and more. The group also offers a certification program.

Society of Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD)www.segd.org
SEGD is an international association of environmental graphic designers – including graphic, architectural, interior, landscape, and industrial design – concerned with the visual aspects of wayfinding, communicating identity and information, and shaping the idea of place. Its members receive opportunities for regional and international networking, marketing, and recognition; access to the organization’s job bank; discounted technical information and educational resources and more.

United States Sign Council (USSC)www.ussc.org
An association of independent sign shops and suppliers, USSC conducts seminars and training workshops; hosts trade shows and exhibits of new sign technology; publishes technical and professional manuals; provides members and nonmembers with current information concerning industry trends, products, and practices; and is an active participant in issues involving sign legislation, zoning, and land-use planning. Its annual event, Sign World International, takes place in Atlantic City in December.

Xplorwww.xplor.org
Xplor is a professional association for those involved in the design, production, and distribution of variable-data documents, ranging from high volumes of statements, bills, insurance policies, and personalized direct mail to very customized marketing materials. Benefits include online educational courses, access to the organization’s career center, discounts on other educational opportunities, and invitations to exclusive networking events.